Anyone up? Dilemma about ringing in sick.

[Whattodo1435]

I've has very bad back pain for last 2 weeks. I work in a care setting and the last few shifts have been horrendous. I rested yesterday ready to go in this morning and I don't think I'm going to be able to do it. Last night when walking was such a strain...this is we have a big D and V outbreak and many people are off. Me phoning in sick is going to put on huge pressure on them, however I also don't want to permenantly damage my back.

You aren't well enough to work at the moment @Whattodo1435 , you mustn't risk your long term health either. Phone in sick.

Ring in sick, you need to look after yourself. You can't care for others if you're in pain like that.

I'm just really worried about our residents as we are that low on staff. ..

But what happens if you end up hurting your back to a point that you can't work for months? In the long run, you're doing the right thing, it just might not feel like it right now.

I've phoned it and feel so so bad.....

But backs are very important and you could make it worse. I would see an Osteopath if it was me.

@Redsquirrel5

But backs are very important and you could make it worse. I would see an Osteopath if it was me.

I did last week but no better. GP wouldn't see me in person but prescribed Diazepam.

Please don't feel bad. It is not your responsibility to damage yourself (potentially permanently) in order to mitigate a staffing issue. Other people are paid to ensure adequate staffing levels. You have a genuine need to be off, you have absolutely nothing to feel guilty about.

Take the pain killers and rest your back.
Staffing isn’t your responsibility.

dont you use hoists?

I don't know if you can use with diazepam, you might find an anti-inflammatory cream helpful. You could ask a pharmacist for advice on what you could safely add. As for the ringing in sick, they'll be a lot more short staffed if you're back gets worse, could be weeks or more. A night or two off now is better for both your health and the residents you care for.

@LunaAndHerMoonDragons

I don't know if you can use with diazepam, you might find an anti-inflammatory cream helpful. You could ask a pharmacist for advice on what you could safely add. As for the ringing in sick, they'll be a lot more short staffed if you're back gets worse, could be weeks or more. A night or two off now is better for both your health and the residents you care for.

You're right. I know I shouldn't have gone in for last few shifts, just really need the money :-(

@feliznavidad2

But what happens if you end up hurting your back to a point that you can't work for months? In the long run, you're doing the right thing, it just might not feel like it right now.

This.

Aw you're so nice. I know you worry about them but you need to get better for their sake of not yours.

Thanks everyone. I'm so glad I did. Just been pottering a little to help the kids and I have to sit down now. It was the right decision X

I understand your dilemma but I think you did the right thing, I have back pain at the moment caused by my job and it’s so bloody annoying and unrelenting. Did the diazepam help? I have some at home and wondering whether to take it as co codamol does sweet bugger all.